France favorites in World Cup, experts cite potential weaknesses
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 9, 2026, 11:36 AM
Last updated Jul 9, 2026

France, having won all five matches and scored 14 goals in the World Cup, faces Morocco in the quarter-finals at 21:00 BST. Despite their impressive performance led by Kylian Mbappe, analysts highlight potential weaknesses, particularly in defensive control compared to Spain, who may present a significant challenge in the semi-finals. There is a consensus among pundits that while France is a strong contender, they are not unbeatable, as Spain has previously secured victories against them.
- •France has won five matches and scored 14 goals in the World Cup.
- •They face Morocco in the quarter-finals at 21:00 BST.
- •Analysts suggest Spain could be a major threat in the semi-finals.
- •Spain remains unbeaten with a strong defensive record in the tournament.
- •Pundits note France's weaknesses in defensive control can be exploited.
- 11:36 AMBBC Sport — France's superstars are beatable - and these are their weaknesses
"France are the overwhelming favourites to win the World Cup. BBC Sport asks some of its reporters in America what they think?
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